Brochure "Düsseldorf without barriers"

Content

Public Transport (Rheinbahn)

Rheinbahn is the public Transport provider operating in and around Düsseldorf. Its network consists of seven underground lines as well as eleven tram and 92 bus lines. The route map is specially tailored to the needs of passengers with limited mobility.

For detailed information on lines, stops and stations, please refer to the Rheinbahn route map, which can be downloaded here. Please note that current construction projects may cause deviations.

For up-to-date timetable information and information on disruptions or maintenance work visit the Rheinbahn website at www.rheinbahn.de.

Underground

In Düsseldorf, the Underground runs partly in tunnels and partly above ground (city railway system). Underground trains have movable steps and in many cases, especially in all tunnel stations, stop at elevated platforms to enable level boarding. Unfortunately, it is not always possible to build elevated platforms above ground. The city of Düsseldorf and Rheinbahn are investing significant sums here to gradually increase the number of elevated platforms. At elevated platforms, there is a small gap between car and platform edge (up to 8 cm) that needs to be negotiated. Underground stations with lifts and elevated platforms above ground with ramps are marked in the Rheinbahn map.

For comfortable boarding use the door with the appropriate symbol and a yellow flashing light. These are located near the centre of the train.

For the latest information on barrier-free boarding and alighting go to: www.rheinbahn.de

Trams

Rheinbahn operates low-floor trams. Wheelchair users are requested to use the front door (door-opening button with wheelchair symbol). Opposite the door is enough space for wheelchairs (stop-request button within reach). The low-floor trams partly stop at stations where the boarding height is less than 8 cm. At other stops, a height of between 8 and 12 cm must be negotiated. The gap between car and platform edge at these stops is usually less than 8 cm.

Bus

Rheinbahn operates low-floor buses without steps, with a “kneeling” function to lower the bus further. Rheinbahn buses have space for wheelchairs to the right of, or opposite, the second door. At some of the stops, the boarding height is less than 6 cm. At other stops, however, this may be up to 12 cm. Many of the buses have folding ramps. These buses are identified accordingly at the front of the bus.

Service for passengers with visual impairments

In all Rheinbahn vehicles, the next stop is announced via loudspeaker. At many stops, to assist people with visual impairment, the way to the vehicle or exit is marked by tactile guiding lines, grooved paving stones, and black and white paving. At many underground stations and some stops above ground, the railings at the platform entrance have information in Braille about the direction of travel of the train. A distinct tactile marking ring on the handrail identifies a change in step sequence. The markings are based on right-hand traffic. As an additional service, Rheinbahn provides acoustic passenger information at some stops. Pressing a button announces the departure of the next trains, trams and buses.

Personal assistance for passengers with restricted mobility

Personal assistance is available to anyone requiring help when travelling by bus or tram. Assistants meet passengers at their doorstep, help them get on and off the bus or train, operate the ticket machine, and accompany them safely on their whole ride – on any Rheinbahn line in Düsseldorf.

This service is free for all passengers with a valid ticket.

Important:

The Rheinbahn personal assistance service does not replace the disability transport or carry service provided by the city of Düsseldorf. Passengers must generally be able to travel by bus, tram or train.

The service is offered on working days from 7:30 – 19:00.

Bookings – at least one day in advance – can be made by phone 0049 211 58 23 456 or fax 0049 211 58 23 457.